Quality and safety of herbal products: Part 1 — new legislation and production

摘要

IN THE past decade there has been an increase in the use of herbal medicinal products (HMPs) by the general public who are using them to replace or complement conventional medicines. Indeed consumers' confidence and reliance on HMPs in self-medication are increasing, in part because such products are often considered harmless (as they are natural and therefore thought safe), or are at least thought to have fewer side effects than regular medicines. However, as with all biologically active products, there may be side effects or other adverse effects and possibly toxicity. Whether a product containing medicinal plant material is classed as a medicine or a food supplement depends on content, with both classes of product being regulated under the relevant frameworks.